The landscape of women's professional basketball is poised for significant transformation as the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) outlines ambitious expansion plans. With the aim of growing from 12 to 15 franchises by 2026, the league is betting on untapped markets and undeniable interest in women's sports nationwide.
New Teams on the Horizon
The Golden State Valkyries will make their debut in the 2025 WNBA season, marking the first step in the league's strategic expansion blueprint. Following them, Portland will welcome a new team in 2026, a region with a rich basketball culture and a passionate fan base eager to embrace another professional sports franchise. The league's expansion doesn't stop at the U.S. border; by 2026, Toronto will join the WNBA fold, offering Canadian fans a chance to engage with top-tier professional women's basketball on home soil.
Potential for Further Growth
These announcements come amid growing anticipation about the league's future. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has hinted at the potential for a 16th team by 2028, indicating that the league's expansion might only be getting started. With numerous U.S. cities vying for a piece of the action, the prospect of more franchises looms large.
A City of Brotherly Love for Women's Basketball?
Philadelphia has emerged as a frontrunner for one of these future franchises. "We don't have a WNBA team here in the city of Philadelphia. Do any of y'all ever notice that? Y'all know y'all mayor don't like that," said Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, vocalizing her support for bringing a WNBA team to the city. With the mayor's backing, Philadelphia stands as a strong candidate, promoting itself as a city passionate about basketball, with established collegiate programs and a robust fan base.
Kansas City's Passionate Push
Equally enthusiastic is Kansas City, where the push for a WNBA team has been underscored by prominent support. Kansas City's T-Mobile Arena, already host to various college basketball events, is being eyed as a likely venue. NFL star Patrick Mahomes has thrown his weight behind the initiative, stating, "We want to get basketball to Kansas City in general and then WNBA. The success that they've had this last season and these last few seasons, it's kind of a no-brainer." Mahomes' involvement highlights the widespread interest and potential success a Kansas City team could garner.
A Return for Houston?
In Houston, discussions are underway about reestablishing a WNBA franchise. The city was once home to the Comets, a team that left an indelible mark by winning the first-ever WNBA championship in 1997. Now, Tilman Fertitta has entered talks to bring back a WNBA team to Houston, a city with a strong legacy of women's basketball but currently without representation in the league. The potential revival of a Houston team evokes nostalgia while promising a future filled with renewed excitement.
The WNBA's expansion strategy underscores its commitment to fostering growth and increasing the sport’s visibility. This strategic push aligns with the league's recent momentum, driven by rising viewership and increasing support for women's sports. As fans and cities alike rally for the inclusion of new teams, the league stands on the brink of a new era, one that promises to broaden its reach and deepen its impact on communities across North America.